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5 Best Public Markets in Philadelphia

  • October 14, 2022
  • | 10:18 AM

Conduct your own food-tasting experience at these public markets!

Here in Philadelphia, we love to eat! We want high-quality, delicious food and we want it now. It should come as no surprise that our city houses some of the oldest and largest public markets in America. Whether you’re visiting Philly for the first time or just want to try something new, this guide is for you. Here are 5 of the best public markets Philly has to offer. We hope you’re hungry!

Reading Terminal Market

Was anyone else panicking when the beloved Reading Terminal Market nearly shut down? Because, same. Thankfully, this former railroad terminal, now an iconic 126-year-old historical landmark, is surviving and thriving! If you’re visiting Philadelphia, you don’t want to miss out on the locals’ absolute favorite public market. And if you’re a local, you already know! The Reading Terminal Market is home to some of the best seafood, meats, cheeses, and fresh produce. Plus, they serve breakfast and lunch daily with a wide assortment of prepared food options from Beiler’s to Dutch Eating Place to Little Thai Market. Trust us, this market is a must-try!

9th Street Italian Market

South Philly’s 9th Street Italian Market has been specializing in high-quality Italian food for over 100 years! This outdoor public market hosts a myriad of vendors and restaurants to bring flavorful food options to the very deserving locals and tourists! Aside from Italian, expect to see top-notch Southeast Asian and Mexican options along with some Philly classics like cheesesteaks and roast pork sandwiches. The market spans 10 blocks within the Bella Vista & Passyunk Square communities, making it one of the biggest outdoor markets in America. We think it’s ideal for taking a relaxing stroll and enjoying all the market has to offer!

The Bourse Food Hall

The Bourse is yet another historic building in the city that’s been completely revived and revamped. The 125-year-old building was once the nation’s first commodities exchange market. Today, the Bourse Food Hall is a flourishing artisan public market a.k.a foodie heaven. They have it all – a diverse list of vendors, culinary craftsmanship, and a prime location across from Independence Mall in Old City. We recommend Grubhouse’s all-day breakfast; try their hot chicken & waffles or biscuits & gravy! But if you’re stopping by for lunch, Rebel Taco is the perfect spot for authentic tacos and margs.

Franklin's Table Food Hall

Located on UPenn’s campus at 34th & Walnut, Franklin’s Table is in a class by itself. This food hall has a cafeteria-style setup that seats about 175 people and a slew of delicious Philly flavors. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this public market has you covered. You can hit up Goldie for vegan falafel, High Street Provisions for a variety of sandwiches and baked goods, and DK sushi which features hand-rolled sushi from the chefs at Double Knot! If you happen to stumble into University City and you’re looking for a bite, Franklin’s Table Food Hall is a great option!

Cherry Street Pier

Christopher Columbus Boulevard’s Cherry Street Pier is an exhibition space, art studio, and market all in one! They always feature food trucks like French Toast Bites, art and handmade goods from local creators, and a Mexican-inspired menu at the Garden restaurant. Did we mention, there’s a riverside beer pub, too? You can also expect to see the return of DesignPhiladelphia’s interactive exhibition from October 13 to October 23! It is a celebration of the city’s best design creators, architecture, and installations. And it’s free, so be sure to check it out and do a little munching and shopping while you’re there!

Which public market will you be heading to? We hope the answer is ALL OF THEM!

We’re so excited for you to try one of these markets and grub on some of Philly’s best food! Be sure to keep up with us on Instagram, Facebook, and Tik Tok @StuffToDoinPhilly, and tag us in all of your foodie pics!

 

Curated by

Alyssa Thompson

Alyssa Thompson

Philly City Girl ?| Lifestyle | Foodie | Health & Wellness | Fashion | Sports

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